Q. 1. What is the meaning of the word "talebearing" and what does the Catholic Church teach about it?

A. 1. A talebearer sows discord among friends by spreading gossip and rumours that may cause trouble or harm to others. A talebearer is synonym to being a blabbermouth or to tattle.

The Church condemns such behaviour because it gives rise to anger, hatred, and ill-will, this often leading to greater sins.

On the matter of talebearers (double-tongued) the Holy Bible states,

"Do not be called double-tongued and do not lay traps with your tongue; for shame comes to the thief, and severe condemnation to the double-tongued." [Sirach 5:14]